The Weekly High Five 🐾

One Quick Win 🙏 One Video to Watch 👀 One Post I Loved

Hey Reader,
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Halloween is just around the corner, and with constant doorbell ringing and excited trick-or-treaters, it's prime time for dogs to bolt out open doors.
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This week, I'm sharing a crucial safety technique to prevent door dashing before the chaos begins, giving you everything you need to help your dog survive Halloween stress-free, and teaching an impressive positioning trick that's perfect for managing your dog during busy moments.

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One Quick Win 🙏

This week's Quick Win focuses on "Door Threshold Training":

1. Approach your front door with your dog on a leash and ask them to sit about 3 feet back from the door.
2. Reach for the door handle - if they move forward, say "nope" and guide them back to sitting position.
3. Open the door just 2-3 inches, then immediately close it if they move. Reward if they stay.
4. Gradually increase how far you open the door, always closing it if they break their sit.
5. Only after they're reliably staying, add your release word ("okay" or "free") and let them approach the threshold.

This is essential before Halloween, when your door will be opening constantly!
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Practice this daily for the next few weeks so your dog understands they must wait for permission before approaching an open door.
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This single skill prevents escapes and keeps trick-or-treaters safe from jumping dogs.

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One Video To Watch 👀

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Halloween is fun for us, but it can be absolutely overwhelming for our dogs! In this week's timely video, I share your complete survival guide for getting through Halloween safely and stress-free.

Learn which common Halloween candies are toxic to dogs, discover how to create a safe space for anxious pups during constant doorbell ringing, and find out why practicing your Halloween routine NOW (not on October 31st!) makes all the difference.
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Whether you're staying home to hand out candy or taking your dog trick-or-treating, these tips will help everyone enjoy the holiday.

One Social Post I Loved 🧡

Want to teach your dog an impressive positioning command?
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This week's post is a IG Reel tutorial from @highflyingcollies that demonstrates the "center" trick, where your dog circles around your leg and sits perfectly between your legs, facing forward!
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This command isn't just a party trick; it's incredibly useful for managing your dog in crowded situations (hello, Halloween!).
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Having your dog in center position keeps them close and controlled when trick-or-treaters arrive or when you need them out of the way but still engaged.
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Plus, it builds focus and body awareness while looking impressive to guests!

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October brings Halloween excitement, but preparation is everything when it comes to keeping our dogs safe and calm.
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Door dashing prevention becomes critical when your entrance is a revolving door of costumed visitors, and having management tools like the center position gives you options during chaotic moments.

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The key to a successful Halloween is starting your preparation now, not the night before. Practice door manners, set up safe spaces, and teach positioning commands while there's still time to build these skills properly.

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Questions about door dashing prevention, Halloween preparation, or teaching positioning commands? Send me a message, I love helping families prepare for seasonal challenges!
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Here's to safe doors and stress-free Halloween nights!

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Pam,
CPDT-KA
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PS. Need personalized help with door manners or Halloween anxiety? Let's work together - virtually or in person! >>>> Click here to book your Free Call with Me​
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